Sperm quality declines if ejaculation occurs more frequently than every 48 hours or less frequently than every 5 days. Your chances of attaining pregnancy are also improved if sexual intercourse occurs a day or so before ovulation. This gives sperm time to travel up the female reproductive tract and be in the fallopian tube—where fertilization takes place—when the egg gets there during ovulation. Many lubricants contain spermicidal ingredients, so you should avoid using these when trying to conceive.

The toxins in cigarette smoke reduce sperm count and motility and increase the number of abnormal sperm. Smoking also adversely affects hormone levels and may affect the cells in the testes that produce testosterone. Like cigarette smoking, use of marijuana also can adversely affect sperm count, sperm motility, and sperm morphology. It also reduces plasma testosterone levels. Anabolic steroids are sometimes used to increase muscle mass or strength, but they also influence production of reproductive hormones and can reduce fertility. Use of cocaine also negatively affects sperm parameters as well as the ability of sperm to penetrate cervical mucus. Opiates (heroin, morphine) may reduce fertility in men by altering hormone production.

High body fat can alter hormone metabolism. If you are overweight, consult with your doctor or a registered dietitian to find out what weight is healthy for you and to get help in attaining it.

Antioxidants
, like
vitamin C
,
vitamin E
, and beta-carotene, protect the body from "free radicals," which are produced during normal body functions. It is believed that these free radicals can cause harm to the body, possibly causing damage to sperm cells. For some men, taking a daily antioxidant supplement may help improve their fertility. If you're interested in taking antioxidants, talk to your doctor.

Moderate exercise increases sperm production and may have beneficial effects on fertility. However, excessive exercise, such as that performed by long-distance runners, reduces sperm production.

The testicles are easily damaged during vigorous sporting events or fights. These injuries can cause inflammation that reduces the blood supply to the testicles, which can permanently damage sperm-producing cells.

Some evidence suggests that heat exposure, such as occurs when using a sauna or hot tub, may affect sperm quantity and quality.

Underwear and clothing that is tight and constricting may reduce blood flow in the groin and adversely affect sperm production.

Certain bicycle seats may cause circulatory and neurologic damage in the groin that can affect erectile function.

Psychological stress can be a positive or negative force in your life, depending on how you deal with it. High levels of stress hormones interfere with many physiologic processes and may influence your ability to attain conception. To help reduce mental and emotional stress in your life, consider learning relaxation exercises, yoga or tai chi, or talking to a counselor about problems or stressful relationships in your life. Talk to your doctor about which stress management options may be best for you, and request a referral to a stress management program.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.